Current time in Samtavisi, Georgia

Samtavisi is a village located in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia, situated at GPS coordinates 42.00758, 44.40999. This village is part of the larger municipality of Mtskheta, which lies approximately 36 kilometers north of Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Samtavisi falls within the Asia/Tbilisi timezone.

Samtavisi is known for its proximity to significant historical and cultural sites, including ancient churches and monasteries that reflect Georgia’s rich religious heritage. The region surrounding Samtavisi is characterized by picturesque landscapes, making it an appealing destination for those interested in exploring the natural beauty of Georgia. Its location also provides access to the cultural and historical attractions of Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enhancing its regional significance.

Timezone in Samtavisi

Samtavisi is located in the Asia/Tbilisi timezone, which operates at a UTC offset of +4 hours. This means that when it is noon in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), it is 4 PM in Samtavisi. Georgia, including Samtavisi, does not observe daylight saving time, maintaining this offset throughout the year.

When considering the time difference to the United States, for instance, Samtavisi is 8 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (UTC-5) and 11 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (UTC-8). This significant difference can complicate communication; therefore, it is advisable to contact someone in Samtavisi during their business hours, typically from 9 AM to 6 PM local time, which corresponds to 1 AM to 10 AM in New York and 4 AM to 1 PM in Los Angeles. In comparison to other major cities in the region, Tbilisi shares the same timezone and standard time with Samtavisi, as do cities like Yerevan and Baku.

This regional consistency makes scheduling across these cities relatively straightforward, while the differences with distant locations like New York or Los Angeles require careful planning.

Attractions and Activities in Samtavisi

Samtavisi is a small village located in Georgia’s Mtskheta-Mtianeti region. It is primarily known for its historical significance and proximity to the ancient city of Mtskheta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The village features the Samtavisi Cathedral, a prominent example of early medieval Georgian architecture, dating back to the 11th century.

The cathedral is celebrated for its intricate frescoes and unique stone carvings, which reflect the artistic heritage of the region. The surrounding area is characterized by picturesque landscapes, with the nearby mountains offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Caucasus region. Samtavisi’s location also makes it a convenient starting point for those wishing to explore the broader historical and cultural sites in Mtskheta, including the Jvari Monastery and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, both of which are significant to Georgia’s religious history.

The village embodies the rich cultural tapestry of Georgia, blending its historical roots with the serene natural environment.

Practical Information for Visitors

Samtavisi is accessible primarily by road, with the nearest major city being Mtskheta. Visitors can reach Mtskheta from Tbilisi International Airport, which is about 50 kilometers away. From Tbilisi, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) or a taxi to Mtskheta, and then hire a local taxi or use a private car to reach Samtavisi.

Public buses also run from Tbilisi to Mtskheta regularly, making it convenient for travelers. The weather in Samtavisi generally features a humid subtropical climate. Summers can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, while winters can be chilly with occasional snowfall.

The best time to visit Samtavisi is during the spring and early autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and vibrant. When visiting, consider wearing comfortable shoes, as the area has historic sites that may require walking on uneven surfaces. It’s also advisable to bring a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in spring and autumn.

Be sure to try local cuisine in nearby Mtskheta, as it offers a taste of traditional Georgian dishes.